Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Panasonic ZS7 and Canon SX170 IS side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Panasonic ZS7 has external dimensions of 103 x 60 x 33 mm (4.06 x 2.36 x 1.3″) and weighs 218 g (0.48 lb / 7.69 oz) (including batteries). Canon SX170 IS has external dimensions of 108 x 71 x 44 mm (4.25 x 2.8 x 1.73″) and weighs 251 g (0.55 lb / 8.85 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Panasonic ZS7 and the Canon SX170 IS. Panasonic ZS7 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 5mm narrower, 11mm shorter and 11mm thinner than Canon SX170 IS.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Panasonic ZS7 and Canon SX170 IS.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic ZS7 is 33g lighter than the Canon SX170 IS but we don't think this will make a significant difference.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7 (Lumix DMC-TZ10) nor Canon PowerShot SX170 IS provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Panasonic ZS7 and Canon SX170 IS's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.